How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA: Requirements & Salary for 2025

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Virginia Beach offers reputable nursing programs, ample clinical training at top healthcare facilities, and strong employment prospects, making it an attractive location for nurse practitioners (NPs). While the cost of living is slightly above the national average (101 cost of living index), competitive NP salaries in the area help offset expenses. Overall, aspiring NPs can benefit from both professional opportunities and quality of life in this coastal city.

This article features a step-by-step guide to becoming a licensed nurse practitioner (LNP) in Virginia, accounting for the academic and licensure requirements aspirants will likely encounter. It also navigates various facets surrounding the profession, including the average salary, projected employment growth, notable specializations, and essential skills to develop.

Key Points to Know About Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach offers a growing demand for nurse practitioners, driven by an aging population and expanding healthcare facilities, creating promising job prospects through 2030.
The average salary for licensed nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach is competitive, often exceeding $110,000 annually, reflecting the region’s healthcare market growth.
With strong community health initiatives and proximity to research institutions, Virginia Beach is ideal for those seeking advanced practice roles and innovative nursing careers.

What are the educational requirements to become a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?
Are there schools in Virginia Beach, VA that offer nurse practitioner programs?
What skills do you need to become a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?
What are the requirements for a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?
What is the licensing process for nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, VA?
How long does it take to become a licensed nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?
What complementary healthcare roles can boost your career in Virginia Beach, VA?
What career advancement opportunities are available for nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, VA?
Will a nurse practitioner license from Virginia Beach, VA allow you to work in other states?
How much do Virginia Beach, VA nurse practitioners earn?
Is there a demand for nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, VA?
What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA

What are the educational requirements to become a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?

Aspiring NPs in Virginia Beach are required to complete a series of academic and clinical requisites that meet state and national standards. The following requirements collectively serve as proof that a student has the capabilities to flourish in the field of advanced practice nursing:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Serving as a prerequisite for entry into graduate-level nurse practitioner programs.
Graduate degree requirement: Earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or higher, such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), from an accredited program approved by the Virginia Joint Boards of Nursing and Medicine. The ideal accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Core coursework: Studying pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, and advanced physical assessment to build essential clinical knowledge.
Clinical practicum: Engaging in structured, supervised clinical training integrated into the graduate curriculum rather than traditional apprenticeships.

Aspiring NPs have to pick a specialization when taking up a graduate-level nursing degree like an MSN or DNP. Before deciding on a program to pursue, they can explore AGNP vs FNP which is better, and do the same for other possible specializations, so they will not have trouble picking one down the line.

Are there schools in Virginia Beach, VA that offer nurse practitioner programs?

Prospective NPs in Virginia Beach have access to a variety of notable nurse practitioner programs in the region. Old Dominion University (ODU) is a prominent choice, offering a well-established Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program with over two decades of experience. ODU’s curriculum focuses on critical thinking, clinical problem-solving, and research, preparing students to provide comprehensive primary care to individuals and families.

A unique aspect of ODU’s program is its partnership with the Sentara Center for Simulation and Immersive Learning at Eastern Virginia Medical School, where students gain hands-on experience through immersive simulated patient care using advanced technologies and standardized patients.

South University’s Virginia Beach campus also offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner, designed to prepare students for advanced clinical roles in primary care across various life stages and health settings. ECPI University provides a similar Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN) degree, emphasizing practical skills and competencies essential for advanced practice nursing in family medicine.

Researching the requirements to become a nurse practitioner for your preferred programs early comes as an advantage. In doing so, you can give yourself ample time to obtain the necessary documents and account for possible delays.

What skills do you need to become a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?

As the nursing industry advances, aspiring NPs in Virginia Beach must actively develop a combination of technical and soft skills to keep up with the evolving needs of the public. The key abilities to hone include the following:

Advanced Clinical Judgment: The role demands the capacity to assess, diagnose, and manage a wide range of medical conditions with precision, using sophisticated clinical reasoning to interpret complex patient information.
Evidence-Based Practice: Integrating the latest research into daily care routines is essential, enabling nurse practitioners to apply proven methods that improve patient outcomes continually.
Health Information Technology: Proficiency with electronic health records and telehealth platforms is increasingly important, ensuring seamless communication and efficient management of patient data in a digital healthcare environment.
Leadership and Communication Skills: Effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams and the ability to lead care initiatives are vital, requiring clear communication and advocacy for patient needs.
Systems Thinking: Understanding the broader healthcare system allows nurse practitioners to optimize resource use, enhance quality control, and promote patient safety within the unique framework of Virginia Beach’s medical infrastructure.

What are the requirements for a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?

Nurse practitioners seeking licensure in Virginia Beach must fulfill several key requisites set by the Virginia Board of Nursing and the Board of Medicine. The following requirements ensure that practitioners meet state and national standards before providing care:

Current RN license: Candidates must hold a valid Virginia registered nurse license or an RN license with multi-state privilege under the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), allowing practice across participating states.
Application and fee: Submission of an online application accompanied by a $125 fee and proof of national certification in an approved nurse practitioner specialty is mandatory.
National certification exam: Passing a certification exam recognized by accredited bodies in the NP’s specialty area is required for licensure.
Criminal background check: A background screening is conducted to ensure public safety, consistent with standards in most states.
Continuing education and renewal: Maintaining current certification is necessary for license renewal; those initially licensed without national certification must demonstrate relevant continuing education completion.

As of July 1, 2024, nurse practitioners (except CRNAs, CNMs, and Clinical Nurse Specialists) with three years of full-time clinical experience in Virginia can apply for full practice authority, known as autonomous practice. This enhances professional independence and may attract more NPs to Virginia Beach. Future trends may include expanded telehealth privileges and broader roles for nurse practitioners, especially in primary care and specialty settings.

Aspiring NPs who aim to enter the professional field early can select a program from the best rated 1 year online nurse practitioner programs on reliable education websites. These programs are faster to complete than traditional degrees and often charge lower fees.

What is the licensing process for nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, VA?

The pathway to becoming an LNP in Virginia Beach involves several activities aligned with state regulations and national standards. This ensures practitioners meet rigorous educational and professional criteria before entering practice. Here are the key steps to follow after completing the academic requirements:

Application Submission: Candidates must complete an online application for APRN licensure, accompanied by a $125 fee.
Certification Verification: Proof of national certification in a specialty area is required, confirming that the applicant’s education matches their clinical focus.
Registered Nurse Licensure: Applicants need an active, unrestricted RN license. Those living in Nurse Licensure Compact states can hold their RN license there, but APRN licensure must be obtained specifically in Virginia.
Ongoing Compliance: After licensure, maintaining national certification and fulfilling renewal obligations, including continuing education, is mandatory.

An NP from Virginia Beach who graduated from a local nursing program shared insights on navigating this licensing pathway. “Initially, the application process felt overwhelming, especially ensuring all documentation aligned with both state and national requirements,” they reflected. “But the support from the Virginia Board of Nursing was invaluable, clarifying the steps and expectations.” They noted that balancing certification maintenance with clinical duties demands discipline but ultimately fosters professional growth. “Working here means adapting to evolving regulations and embracing telehealth, which feels like the future of practice.”

The visual below reveals that a vast majority of nurse practitioners in the country are female.

How long does it take to become a licensed nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?

Aspirants who are preparing to become LNPs in Virginia Beach can expect to spend approximately six to seven years completing the academic and licensure process. Here is a brief breakdown of the typical timeline:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This stage typically involves approximately four years of full-time study, during which students gain foundational knowledge in nursing theory, clinical practice, and patient care.
Master’s Degree Program: The graduate program usually takes around two years to complete and includes a minimum of 800 hours of supervised clinical experience, allowing students to develop the advanced skills required for nurse practitioner roles.
Certification Exam and Licensure: After completing the graduate program, candidates must pass a national certification exam and then apply for licensure through the Virginia Board of Nursing, a process that may take several weeks to months depending on how quickly documentation is submitted and reviewed.

Aspiring NPs who intend to provide care to families can choose schools based on those that offer FNP programs. Pursuing a specialization that does not truly capture your interests could lead to regret or undesirable outcomes, especially in a labor-intensive discipline like advanced practice nursing.

What complementary healthcare roles can boost your career in Virginia Beach, VA?

Expanding beyond traditional nurse practitioner responsibilities through interprofessional collaboration can enhance your effectiveness and open new career avenues. Integrating additional healthcare roles, such as taking on responsibilities in clinical education, healthcare management, or even exploring advanced pharmaceutical practices, enables you to provide more comprehensive patient care. For instance, understanding the pathway to how to become a pharmacist in Virginia Beach may offer valuable insights into cross-disciplinary practices that improve care coordination and patient outcomes. This strategic diversification supports professional growth and may position you for leadership roles within integrated healthcare teams.

What career advancement opportunities are available for nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, VA?

Nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, VA can leverage a range of strategies to advance their careers. Pursuing specialized certifications, engaging in leadership and management training, and enrolling in targeted continuing education programs can expand clinical and administrative expertise. Additionally, participating in professional organizations and networking events enhances exposure to emerging healthcare practices and collaborative projects. Some practitioners also augment their skill set by exploring a complementary credential such as medical biller and coder certification in Virginia Beach, further broadening their understanding of healthcare operations and opening new avenues for career growth.

Will a nurse practitioner license from Virginia Beach, VA allow you to work in other states?

NPs in Virginia Beach receive their license through the Virginia Board of Nursing. The license does not automatically allow practice outside Virginia. While the state is part of the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC), its benefits currently apply only to RNs, excluding advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) like NPs.

Starting in 2025, NPs from Virginia Beach who wish to work in other states must obtain licensure by endorsement. This process typically involves the following steps:

Submitting an application for endorsement in the new state
Providing documentation of education, certification, and active licensure
Meeting any additional state-specific demands such as background checks or further training

How much do Virginia Beach, VA nurse practitioners earn?

By mid-2025, the typical yearly income for NPs in Virginia is around $129,177, translating to roughly $62.10 per hour. New graduates usually earn close to $122,946 annually, while those with extensive experience or advanced qualifications may earn upward of $148,700, especially in specialized fields. Several elements influence salary differences among nurse practitioners:

Experience level: More seasoned practitioners tend to earn more, with top salaries nearing $178,456 yearly.
Specialized skills: Areas like acute care, psychiatry, or women’s health offer higher pay due to increasing demand for expert practitioners.
Industry trends: The rise of telehealth and an aging population are creating expanded roles and salary growth in underserved and high-need specialties.

Is there a demand for nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, VA?

The demand for NPs in Virginia Beach is robust, expected to grow steadily in the coming years. As of June 2025, there are hundreds of nurse practitioner job openings in the region, spanning a variety of specialties such as family practice, psychiatry, pain management, cancer care, and primary care. The strong demand is driven by an aging population, evolving healthcare models, and a regional focus on expanding access to preventive and specialized medical services.

Job growth for nurse practitioners aligns with national trends, where top-tier practitioners can earn upwards of $153,400 annually, reflecting competitive compensation and high demand. Specialty areas like psychiatric nurse practitioners and pain management experts are particularly sought after.

Aspirants who plan to speed up the education process can pursue the best online RN to MSN programs, which link a BSN to an MSN and trim the coursework of repetitive and non-essential subjects. These programs are considerably faster to complete than taking the covered degrees separately.

What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?

Operating as an NP in Virginia Beach requires adherence to both ethical standards and legal mandates established at the state level. The key guidelines to observe include the following:

Licensure Requirements: NPs need to hold a current registered nurse license and advanced practice nurse credential before engaging in clinical duties.
Compliance with Practice Acts: Clinical activities must align with the Virginia Nurse Practice Act and Nursing Regulations, emphasizing patient confidentiality, informed consent, and professional conduct.
Ethical Patient Care: Prioritizing patient well-being, honoring patient autonomy, and maintaining clear professional boundaries remain fundamental ethical imperatives.
Autonomous Practice Opportunities: Since July 2023, experienced NPs with a minimum of three years or 5,400 clinical hours can seek licensure to practice independently, reducing reliance on physician collaboration agreements.
Prescriptive Authority: Medication prescribing must fall within the defined scope, either under a practice agreement or, for autonomous NPs, within state law limitations.
Ongoing Education: Continuous professional development and staying current with evolving best practices and regulations are essential for licensure renewal and quality care delivery.

The chart below shows that most NPs in the country work in doctors' offices.

What do licensed nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, VA say about their careers?

"Pursuing my nurse practitioner degree at Old Dominion University was one of the best decisions I ever made. The program’s strong connection to local healthcare facilities allowed me to start working in a Virginia Beach hospital right after graduation, which helped me gain invaluable hands-on experience. The vibrant community here has given me many opportunities to grow not only professionally but also personally, as I’ve been able to contribute to health initiatives that directly benefit my neighbors. The coastal environment and diverse population make every day unique and rewarding in ways I hadn’t anticipated." - Melody

"Completing my advanced nursing studies at Regent University gave me a solid foundation to begin my career in a local healthcare facility here in Virginia Beach. The supportive atmosphere and the city’s emphasis on wellness have inspired me to focus on community health and preventive care, which has been incredibly fulfilling. Virginia Beach’s dynamic culture and resources have presented challenges that pushed me to develop innovative solutions for patient care, enhancing my professional skills and confidence. I’m proud to be part of a healthcare system that values growth and continuous learning." - Frances

"After graduating from Eastern Virginia Medical School’s nurse practitioner program, I started working in a hospital in Virginia Beach and quickly realized the unique impact I could make in this coastal city. The steady demand for healthcare professionals here provides excellent job stability, and the region’s rich cultural diversity allows me to connect with patients on many different levels. My journey has been deeply rewarding as I’ve witnessed firsthand how my work helps improve the well-being of this community. The professional development opportunities available have also allowed me to advance my career steadily while staying rooted in a place I love." - Robin

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA

What is the fastest way to become a nurse practitioner in Virginia Beach, VA?

The fastest way to become an NP in Virginia Beach is usually through accelerated nurse practitioner training programs designed for registered nurses holding a bachelor’s degree. These programs, often completed in 12 to 18 months, combine advanced clinical education with practical experience, enabling quicker entry into the workforce.

Emerging trends suggest that virtual simulations and hybrid learning models are being integrated into local curricula, possibly reducing the need for extensive on-site clinical hours in the near future. While internships alone rarely replace formal training, some Virginia Beach healthcare facilities offer residency-like programs that may expedite employment post-certification.

What certifications are required after finishing nurse practitioner programs?

The primary certification required after completing nurse practitioner programs in Virginia Beach is national board certification through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Candidates must pass a specialty-specific exam, such as family or acute care, for which it typically takes several weeks to receive results. Upon passing, practitioners apply for licensure through the Virginia Board of Nursing.

Can a foreigner work as a nurse practitioner in the USA?

Yes, foreigners can work as nurse practitioners in Virginia Beach, but certain conditions apply. Internationally educated nurses must first have their credentials evaluated and meet Virginia’s licensure requirements, including passing the NCLEX-RN exam and obtaining advanced practice certification.

Visa and work authorization remain crucial hurdles, typically requiring sponsorship or specific immigration status. Emerging trends suggest increasing efforts to streamline credential recognition and support for foreign-trained nurses, potentially easing future entry.

In which healthcare settings do most nurse practitioners work in the USA?

Most NPs in Virginia Beach work in a variety of healthcare settings that cater to the region’s diverse population. Primary care is a common field, with many NPs employed in outpatient clinics, family practice offices, and community health centers. These settings allow NPs to provide comprehensive care, including health promotion, disease prevention, and management of chronic conditions.

Hospitals in Virginia Beach also employ a significant number of nurse practitioners, particularly in specialized units such as emergency departments, intensive care, and surgical wards. Additionally, long-term care facilities and nursing homes offer opportunities for NPs to support aging populations with complex health needs.

Other common settings include: